Elephant Butte Airbnb Market Analysis 2026: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in New Mexico, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2026-01-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Elephant Butte in 2026? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Elephant Butte, New Mexico, United States to uncover income potential. This 2026 STR market report for Elephant Butte, based on AirROI data from January 2025 to December 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 41 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Elephant Butte, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Elephant Butte Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Elephant Butte Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$187
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Elephant Butte.
Occupancy Rate(?)
33.5%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$19,750
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Elephant Butte. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-15.1%
Significant decrease (-15.1%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Elephant Butte.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
November
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Elephant Butte.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
41
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Elephant Butte (2026)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Elephant Butte is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Elephant Butte is typically July, while November often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Elephant Butte across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,576+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,904 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,773 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $929, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Elephant Butte

Elephant Butte Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2026)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Elephant Butte STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Junesees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while September experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Elephant Butte:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 67%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 50% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 33%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 18% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Elephant Butte

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Elephant Butte (2026)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Elephant Butte involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Elephant Butte typically peaks in June and dips lowest during February. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $267+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $230 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $173 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $123 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Elephant Butte

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Elephant Butte (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, May)
  • Revenue averages $2,783 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 43.8%
  • Daily rates average $188
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,116 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 34.7%
  • Daily rates hold near $178
Low Season (February, September, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,807 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 32.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $177

Seasonality Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Elephant Butte shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Elephant Butte's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,952, occupancy reaching a high of 46.1%, and ADRs peaking at $191.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $1,788, occupancy could drop to 27.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $170.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Elephant Butte.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Elephant Butte seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Elephant Butte (2026)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Elephant Butte? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Elephant Butte Lake
A scenic lake area perfect for water sports and outdoor activities. It attracts visitors looking for fishing, boating, and relaxing by the water, making it a prime spot for vacation rentals.
Elephant Butte Lake State Park, Fishing and boating opportunities, Water sports, Campgrounds, Scenic views
Truth or Consequences
Nearby town known for its hot springs and wellness retreats, ideal for visitors looking to relax and rejuvenate. Offers unique local experiences and a quaint atmosphere.
Geronimo Springs Museum, Hot springs spas, Riverfront park, Local art galleries, Historic downtown
Caballo Lake
Another beautiful lake nearby, popular for fishing and hiking. It offers a quieter alternative for visitors seeking nature and outdoor adventures.
Caballo Lake State Park, Fishing spots, Hiking trails, Picnic areas, Wildlife watching
Elephant Butte Hot Springs
Famous for its therapeutic hot springs, attracting those seeking wellness and relaxation. It has a unique charm with natural mineral waters.
Hot spring resorts, Spas, Relaxation treatments, Mineral baths, Nature walks
T or C Historical District
Offers a glimpse into the area's rich history and culture, appealing to those interested in local heritage and architecture.
Historic buildings, Local museums, Art galleries, Festivals and events, Unique shops
Elephant Butte BLM Land
Surrounded by Bureau of Land Management land, it caters to outdoor enthusiasts like RVers and campers looking for a rugged escape.
Camping sites, Hiking trails, Off-road biking, Wildlife viewing, Stargazing
Chloride
An old mining town with a unique ghost town experience, appealing to history buffs and adventurers. Offers a glimpse into the mining history of New Mexico.
Old mining sites, Scenic views, Historical landmarks, Hiking trails, Local folklore
Luna County
Offers a blend of outdoor activities and local culture, making it attractive for visitors looking to explore the broader region.
Cultural festivals, Local dining, Outdoor recreation, Agricultural tours, Natural landscapes

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Elephant Butte (2026)

While Elephant Butte, New Mexico, United States currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Elephant Butte to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Elephant Butte (2026)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Elephant Buttebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Cabana Del Largo House

Cabana Del Largo House

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$59,483
Revenue
44.2%
Occupancy
$366.42
Daily Rate
Perfectly situated close to the lake!

Perfectly situated close to the lake!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$56,220
Revenue
61.8%
Occupancy
$242.92
Daily Rate
TURTLEBACK OASIS! Mins to Lake, Hot Springs & Golf

TURTLEBACK OASIS! Mins to Lake, Hot Springs & Golf

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$54,093
Revenue
53.2%
Occupancy
$275.17
Daily Rate
Beach Home KING Bed Deck View & Steps to the Beach

Beach Home KING Bed Deck View & Steps to the Beach

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$53,096
Revenue
71.0%
Occupancy
$197.47
Daily Rate
Happy Quail House!  Minutes to lake, A/C & Parking

Happy Quail House! Minutes to lake, A/C & Parking

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$42,183
Revenue
47.8%
Occupancy
$230.98
Daily Rate
The Happy Place @ the Butte

The Happy Place @ the Butte

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$38,948
Revenue
51.1%
Occupancy
$211.84
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Elephant Butte (2026)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Elephant Butte based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Charles1$59,483964.94/5.0
Lee Ann1$56,220705.00/5.0
Dennis4$54,4842014.94/5.0
Brandon1$54,0932194.77/5.0
Teri1$53,096854.99/5.0
Diana2$50,372344.92/5.0
Rick5$47,9821104.99/5.0
Lindsay1$42,183835.00/5.0
Michael2$38,1621794.86/5.0
Lois1$36,5811054.79/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Elephant Butte.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Elephant Butte STR Market Data (2026)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Elephant Butte. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Elephant Butte Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2026): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The Elephant Butte Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 92.7% of the 41 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Elephant Butte, House properties are the most common (80.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 80.5% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique (combined 4.9%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Elephant Butte Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The dominant room capacity in Elephant Butte is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 36.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 65.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Elephant Butte, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 48.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Elephant Butte.

Elephant Butte Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Elephant Butte vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (31.7%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 6 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Elephant Butte STR market, accounting for 63.4% of listings.
  • 63.4% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Elephant Butte.
  • On average, properties in Elephant Butte are equipped to host 5.7 guests.

Elephant Butte Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The most common availability pattern in Elephant Butte falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 51.2% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 85.3% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Elephant Butte (34.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 17.1% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Elephant Butte Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (24.4%)

1 Night

10 listings

24.4% of total

2 Nights (61%)

2 Nights

25 listings

61% of total

3 Nights (4.9%)

3 Nights

2 listings

4.9% of total

30+ Nights (9.8%)

30+ Nights

4 listings

9.8% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Elephant Butte is 2 Nights, adopted by 61% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (85.4%) of the Elephant Butte Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 61% of Elephant Butte hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 24.4% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 9.8% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Elephant Butte.

Elephant Butte Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)

Flexible (34.1%)

Flexible

14 listings

34.1% of total

Moderate (36.6%)

Moderate

15 listings

36.6% of total

Firm (24.4%)

Firm

10 listings

24.4% of total

Strict

2 listings

4.9% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Elephant Butte is Moderate, used by 36.6% of listings.
  • The market strongly favors guest-friendly terms, with 70.7% of listings offering Flexible or Moderate policies. This suggests guests in Elephant Butte may expect booking flexibility.
  • Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (4.9%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 36.6% market standard in Elephant Butte.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 4.9% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Elephant Butte.

Elephant Butte STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2026)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Elephant Butte

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Elephant Butte is 30 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during December (average 46 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 19 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (35 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (26 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (30 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Elephant Butte.
  • For December stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 46 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 35 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Elephant Butte averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Elephant Butte (2026)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Elephant Butte

  • Essential amenities in Elephant Butte that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Air conditioning, Hot water, Coffee maker, TV, Kitchen. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Microwave, Dishes and silverware, Carbon monoxide alarm are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Elephant Butte: Smoke alarm, Air conditioning, Hot water, Coffee maker, TV, Kitchen.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Smoke alarm, Air conditioning, Hot water, Coffee maker, TV, Kitchen.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Microwave or Dishes and silverware to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Elephant Butte to stay competitive.

Elephant Butte Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Elephant Butte

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Elephant Butte consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Albuquerque, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 98.4% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (98.4%) and Germany (0.4%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (82.5%) followed by Spanish (13.3%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Albuquerque and El Paso.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Elephant Butte Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Mimbres10$1,997$134.3052%
Socorro10$1,831$135.5949%
Las Cruces475$1,703$138.8248%
Mesilla45$1,637$131.1446%
Gila16$1,632$139.6439%
Los Lunas31$1,521$160.6244%
Silver City106$1,520$122.5346%
Glenwood10$1,441$148.1332%
Mountainair10$1,351$93.8055%
Truth or Consequences93$1,326$129.9040%

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